China soccer officials, players in bribery trials

Two former leaders of China's soccer association are among eight officials and players on trial for bribery in a major push to punish those who have tarnished the sport.

Written by Associated Press

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Beijing:

Two former leaders of China's soccer association are among eight officials and players on trial for bribery in a major push to punish those who have tarnished the sport.

Courts in the northeastern province of Liaoning are hearing the cases of Xie Yalong and his successor, Nan Yong. Xie is accused of taking $273,000 in bribes from sports equipment manufacturers, professional clubs, and a former national team coach. Nan is accused of taking at least $160,000 in bribes.

Others on trial include former national team manager Wei Shaohui, former head of referees, Li Dongsheng, and four former national team players.

Chinese soccer has long been plagued by the bribing of coaches, players, and officials by gamblers.